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The Caprilicious Jewellery Blog

A Treasure Trove of Statement Jewellery

Moonlight Spark, by Caprilicious

26/10/2025

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Hello folks, nice to chat to you again. I've been very busy and have had no time to drop by to catch up with you, but some special clasps came through the post and inspired me to create - and now that I have a creation, I can't wait to share it with you. 
The clocks went back this morning, and it is bitterly cold outside - time to play with beads, I reckoned. Going out to the conservatory to get pictures meant getting bundled up in winter gear, but I love this piece so much, I couldn't wait to have it photographed and out on the website.

Moonlight Spark

As I said, the two pairs of clasps arrived in the post, one gold tone and the other silver,  and I rummaged in my stash and a set of quartz beads jumped out at me. 'Pick me, pick me,' they cried, and I didn't have the heart to refuse. I've also had the beautifully enamelled 22K gold-plated beads for a while - I fell in love with them and purchased them a couple of years ago without knowing what I wanted to do with them, and they seemed perfect with the clasp. Besides, these shiny beads embody the festive spirit and are perfect for all the parties that are to come in the next couple of months. 
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There’s something magical about this time of year — the days may be shorter, but the nights are full of sparkle. Fairy lights go up, champagne bottles pop, and suddenly we all rediscover our love for things that glitter. That’s exactly what inspired Moonlight Spark, a necklace that captures that fleeting moment when the world looks brighter, even if it’s freezing outside. 

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​Some necklaces don’t just accessorise an outfit — they command it. Midnight Spark is one of those pieces. Elegant, luminous, and just a touch dramatic, it’s the sort of necklace that turns heads in that quiet, confident way — no shouting, no fuss, just a shimmer that catches the light (and everyone’s attention).
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This piece began as a love letter to the season — not the grey, soggy British version that has us reaching for thermals and soup, but the one we imagine when we close our eyes: crisp air, twinkling frost, golden light bouncing off crystal glasses, laughter echoing from across a party room. That’s where faceted quartz beads come in — their icy sparkle mimics frost catching the morning light. And those lustrous pearls? They’re the moonlit snowdrifts, serene and timeless, gliding through the shimmer.

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But of course, I couldn’t resist adding warmth. The enamelled gold-plated beads bring that touch of festive luxury, like a splash of mulled wine against the cool winter sky.  The enamelled, gold-plated beads are a perfect addition of warmth and richness — tiny bursts of colour that play beautifully against the cool quartz, bringing just the right balance of sophistication and intrigue.
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And then, of course, there’s the clasp — a dazzling micropavé diamante-inset masterpiece. It’s far too beautiful to hide at the back, so wear it to one side and let it be part of the show. Jewellery should never be an afterthought; it should lead the conversation.
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Styling Moonlight Spark is wonderfully easy. For a night out, think simple black velvet, or even a deep jewel-toned dress — emerald, sapphire, or garnet. The neutral sparkle of the quartz works like a mirror, picking up whatever colours surround it, while the gold tones keep everything warm and festive. It’s the kind of necklace that can take you from a family lunch to a dance floor without missing a beat.
For a daytime soiree, pair it with a simple dress, a white silk shirt, or even a sharply tailored blazer — anything that lets the necklace do the talking.
​It’s equally at home at a gallery opening, a dinner date, or that evening when you want to look effortlessly put together without trying too hard.
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Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve, winter weddings — this one’s for the woman who believes sparkle isn’t seasonal. The one who doesn’t fade into the background but stands beneath the fairy lights, glass in hand, radiating confidence. ​This is a necklace for the woman who understands that elegance doesn’t mean being quiet — it’s about having presence. The kind of woman who laughs easily, walks with purpose, and always seems to have a little secret sparkle about her.
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Because why should winter be all about cold? With Moonlight Spark, you bring your own warmth — and a little bit of magic too- and because every woman deserves to glow, even when the lights are low.

That's me for this week, folks. Have a wonderful weekend, and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
​xx

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Secret Garden – Painting with Beads, One Day at a Time, by Caprilicious Jewellery

10/10/2025

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Hello folks, I'm so happy to be back after a short period where I have been missing in action for a few weeks. Let me show you exactly why it has taken me so long to come back and talk to you - my newest piece, SECRET GARDEN!!
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​There’s something deeply satisfying about taking an idea, rolling it around in your head for days (or nights, when you really should be asleep), and finally watching it unfurl into an actual piece of jewellery. Secret Garden was one of those projects. It began as a vague notion of greenery, flowers, and a bit of whimsy — and ended up as a full-blown botanical explosion.
​Of course, it didn’t spring into being like Athena out of Zeus’s head. Oh no. It took beads. Thousands of tiny beads. And days of work, needle and thread in hand, muttering to myself about seed beads being either my best friends or my mortal enemies, depending on the moment. 
​Some pieces arrive fully formed in my head and simply demand to be made. Others take their time, creeping in gently, whispering suggestions until I finally give in. Secret Garden belonged to the latter camp. It started as a passing thought — “wouldn’t it be fun to stitch up a riot of foliage with tiny blossoms peeking through?” — and before I knew it, I was knee-deep in seed beads, muttering darkly about how many thousands of them were required to create a garden that would never wilt.

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​Let me take you behind the scenes. Day 1 was all about laying the foundations: choosing colours, sketching out a rough shape, and stringing those first rows of greenery. I felt rather pleased with myself — until I realised how many more beads it would take. I edged the piece with silver purl wire - don't know why I bothered - it took ages and by the time I ended the piece it wasn't visible at all.
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Day 2–3 saw me deep in the green zones, building up lush textures with darker forest tones and brighter, almost moss-like shades. The piece began to take on depth, as if you could actually peer through the foliage. I like a contrasting colour for the felt as it ensures that I don't cut corners with the beading - no orange is visible after I've been at it!
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​Day 4 was when the magic really began — tiny resin roses stitched into the greenery, pink blossoms springing up almost unexpectedly. A few freshwater pearls nestled themselves in like moonlight caught on leaves.
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​By Day 5, the yellow clusters had joined the party. These were meant to be just accents, but of course they insisted on being loud, cheerful, and impossible to ignore. They brought sunshine to the garden whether I liked it or not.
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It took another 5-6 days of sewing for 3-4 hours at a time to finish the other half of the necklace with beads. 
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The final days were a mixture of exhaustion and excitement: backing with Ultrasuede, edging, tidying, adding rings to the two ends of the necklace, and trying the necklace on the mannequin more times than I care to admit (you’ve got to admire your handiwork, after all). I then had to decide how to hang the necklace and find a clasp for it.
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​And there it was — Secret Garden. A miniature landscape of beads, pearls, and roses that looks like you’ve stumbled into a fairy tale glade. This necklace isn’t shy; it doesn’t whisper. It sings, it blooms, it practically does a little dance when you put it on. This isn’t the piece to pair with florals — unless you want to look like you’ve been mugged by a flowerbed. Instead, let Secret Garden do the talking by setting it against simple, solid colours. Think crisp white linen, a little black dress, or even a sleek jumpsuit. Jewel tones like emerald or amethyst make the pink and yellow pop, while neutrals like beige and grey act as a calm canvas for its riot of colour.
For daytime wear, it can brighten up a plain blouse or add drama to your Zoom wardrobe (because even your colleagues deserve a bit of garden envy). By night, let it sit against something elegant and understated, and watch heads turn.

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​This is not jewellery for shrinking violets — this is for women who know that sometimes the best way to be noticed is to let your accessories bloom louder than your words.
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​So, while real gardens may wilt in winter and sulk in summer heatwaves, this one will stay forever in full bloom. And really, isn’t that the kind of magic we all need?
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​So if you’ve ever wondered what “painting with beads” really looks like — it’s long days, sore fingers, and a head full of ideas. But when you finally step back and see the garden in full bloom, it’s all worth it.
That's me for this week, folks, Have a wonderful weekend, and I'll catch up with you soon. 
Until then
xx
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Baubles, Baubles, Get Your Baubles Here, by Caprilicious!

5/9/2025

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Hello folks, lovely to meet up with you again. I hope the sunshine and showers are keeping you on your toes, in one minute and under a parasol the next! However, as the saying goes, into each life some rain must fall. On some days it is clear that Christmas is on its way - oops, I mentioned the 'C' word!! According to the countdown, it is 111 days to Christmas today, and it's time for those party frocks to be dusted off, and soon, if not already, the shops will be dressed in all their finery. I thought to myself, "Why not get my tree up now?" So here it is - my Murano blown-glass tree with its removable baubles, transported carefully from a long-ago trip to Venice.
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Talking about baubles reminded me of earrings. ​Who was the first person to look at their soft, unsuspecting earlobe and think, “Yes, let’s jab a hole in that and hang something sparkly through it”? History doesn’t tell us the exact name of the culprit, but we do know that earrings go back a very, very long way. The oldest known examples were unearthed in Iraq, dating back to around 2500 BC. The ancient Persians wore them, the Egyptians adored them, and the Greeks couldn’t get enough. They were symbols of wealth, power, beauty — and sometimes even spirituality. In fact, sailors used to wear a single gold hoop in the hope it would pay for a decent burial if their bodies washed ashore somewhere far from home.
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Over the centuries, earrings have gone through countless incarnations. From heavy gold hoops that could double up as weapons, to delicate drops glistening with diamonds, to playful costume pieces in every shape under the sun. What hasn’t changed is the sheer joy of them. Earrings frame the face, move as we move, and catch the light in ways no other jewellery can quite manage. They’re like punctuation marks for the face — you can whisper with studs, or shout with chandeliers.
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​And now here we are, on the brink of the party season, and what better excuse to bring out the baubles? This is the time of year when sparkle is not just acceptable but practically compulsory. Sequins, velvet, glitter, fizz — and earrings, of course. Why do we dress up so much in December? Possibly because the nights are long, the weather is grim, and we humans have always found ways to chase away the winter gloom. If you’re going to raise a glass, you might as well do it in style
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So here they are — light, pretty, showy little confections, ready to dangle from your ears and declare you party-ready. Pop them on with your simplest outfit and suddenly you’ve transformed into someone who looks like they’ve been planning this soirée for weeks. Earrings are alchemy like that.

How to Wear Your Baubles (without overthinking it)

Short hair or an updo? Go big, go dangly, go dramatic. The earrings are the hairstyle.
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Short hair or an updo? Go big, go dangly, go dramatic. The earrings are the hairstyle.
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Wearing your hair down? Pick something that twinkles through the strands like fairy lights. Instant glamour, minimal effort.
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Chunky knit or rollneck jumper? Balance out the “cosy marshmallow” vibe with shoulder-dusting earrings. Hygge, but make it fabulous.
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Little black dress? Anything goes. Subtle shimmer if you’re feeling mysterious, or technicolour fireworks if you fancy being the human equivalent of a cocktail umbrella.
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And finally: prosecco in one hand, earrings in the other. That’s the only styling tip you’ll ever truly need.
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​I’ve got plenty of baubles waiting for you, each one designed to twinkle as you dance, chat, and sip your way through the season. No heavy lobes, no fuss — just the pleasure of wearing something that feels a little frivolous and a lot of fun.
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There are some that have been entirely handmade, some assembled from components from around the world, some with ear wires and others made into studs that sit comfortable in your ears. I'm happy to change over from one to the other - just ask, you're the boss. 

​Baubles, baubles — step right up and get yours. The party starts here.
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That's me for this week, folks. I have a couple of projects lined up, and will soon be back to tell you about them. I hope you've enjoyed the baubles I have on show for you today. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon, 
Until then
​xx
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Midnight Bloom – Mandalas and Peacock Pearls by Caprilicious

16/8/2025

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Hello folks, lovely to catch up with you again. Hubby has been off his feet for the last couple of weeks and I've been playing nursemaid, cook and chief bottle washer as well as doing my day job. He's finally decided that he feels well enough to get out of bed and totter about, and he's obviously much better today - I can hear him singing away in the kitchen as he loads the dishwasher! 
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There’s something intoxicating about the blue lotus. Imagine a flower that opens up at night, basking in moonlight instead of sunlight, as if to say: “I’ll bloom on my own schedule, thank you very much.” In ancient Egypt, it symbolised rebirth and the sun — which seems a bit ironic, given its penchant for nocturnal glamour. The yogis and Buddhists of the world took a different view: for them, the blue lotus represented enlightenment, wisdom, and the expansion of the mind. I suppose that’s the magic of flowers and symbols — they carry whatever meaning you’re ready to give them. Personally, I think the blue lotus is nature’s way of reminding us that beauty often flourishes in the dark.

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​The pendant in Midnight Bloom is a silver mandala, and mandalas themselves are a story worth telling. You’ve probably seen them in temples, art, colouring books, and tattoo designs, all those intricate circles within circles. The word “mandala” comes from Sanskrit and means “circle”, — though a mandala is never just a circle. It’s the universe in miniature, a map of balance, wholeness, and the journey inward. Monks create them in painstaking detail with coloured sand, only to sweep them away when they’re finished, as a reminder of impermanence. Now, I haven’t swept away my mandala — mine is set in silver and adorned with blue stones, because impermanence is all very well in theory, but jewellery should last longer than a sandcastle.
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​Of course, a pendant this striking needs pearls with personality to match. Enter the peacock pearl. These aren’t your grandmother’s polite, cream-coloured rows (though those certainly had their time and place). Peacock pearls are cultured freshwater pearls that have been treated to reveal iridescent shades of green, violet, blue and bronze — a rainbow that shifts as the light catches them. How does that happen? A natural pearl is made inside a mollusc, layer upon layer of nacre (that mother-of-pearl sheen). When you introduce just the right conditions — and sometimes a little bit of alchemy from skilled pearl farmers — you get pearls that gleam like spilled oil on water, only infinitely more chic. They’re the rebellious younger cousins of classic pearls: moody, dramatic, and utterly captivating.
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And what could be more appropriate than pearls that shimmer like moonlight scattered across the surface of dark water? That’s the essence of Midnight Bloom — twilight mystery captured in jewellery. The tiny haematite beads glimmer like distant stars, the silver mandala reflects the cyclical calm of the moon, and the pearls themselves seem to carry a secret glow, as though they’ve stolen a fragment of the night sky.
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​I’ve strung them together with tiny faceted haematite beads, just enough sparkle to echo the glimmer of the pendant, and finished the necklace with a laurel-leaf clasp — a little nod to victory and achievement. And then there are the two silver drum beads, with their pointed ends that cradle the mandala pendant perfectly, keeping it centred and steady, just like the meditative practice it symbolises.
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So what does Midnight Bloom really give you? A whisper of mysticism, a touch of rebellion, and a lot of iridescent glamour. It’s a necklace that says you’re more than just surface sparkle — you carry depth, symbolism, and maybe even a little enlightenment around your neck. And if anyone asks, you can smile mysteriously and say it’s your mandala, your lotus, your bloom at midnight.

That's me for this week, folks. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon,
Until then
​xx


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Pink Lemonade — A Statement Necklace or a State of Mind? By Caprilicious

2/8/2025

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Hello folks, how's tricks? The day job has been busy, what with the junior residents strike and I am glad the week is over and I can play with beads and talk to you - this part of my life is so much more fun, no contest! I also have a bunch of friends from my school days in Bangalore coming to spend the weekend with us, so bed making, cooking and cleaning have also been taking up some of my attention, but these are old friends and they won't mind the odd cobweb. 
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There’s something undeniably joyful about pink lemonade. The drink, I mean — that sparkly, rosy, refreshing concoction that turns up at summer barbecues and girls’ brunches, all fizzy and fabulous like it’s had a good talking-to from a bottle of Prosecco. It’s sweet but tart, pretty but not sickly, and refreshingly hard to resist.


Now imagine taking all of that bottled sunshine and turning it into a necklace.
Voilà — Pink Lemonade, Caprilicious-style.
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​This five-strand dazzler is a swirl of pale pink crystals, creamy pearls and marbled acrylic beads, and it absolutely refuses to be boring. I named it Pink Lemonade because it sparkles just the way the drink does when sunlight hits the glass — light, airy, and just that tiny bit cheeky. It also felt right for a piece that’s so fresh and versatile — and which, crucially, doesn’t take itself too seriously.
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Pink on Pink? Absolutely Not!!

Let’s get one thing out of the way — please, for the love of all things stylish, don’t wear this necklace with pink. I know, I know — it’s tempting. But pink-on-pink is often the fast track to looking like you've escaped from Barbie’s jewellery box.
​What Pink Lemonade really needs is contrast. Think a cobalt blue kaftan, a jade green dress, a sharp black jumpsuit, or even a deep mustard yellow — let the pink pop rather than blend. The colour pink gets a lot more respect when it’s the star of the show and not just floating around in a sea of similar shades, trying to be polite.
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How Do You Make Pink Lemonade?

You take lemonade. You add a splash of cranberry juice. Or raspberry syrup. Or squished strawberries. Basically, anything red and juicy. You give it a stir, garnish it with a slice of lemon and a silly umbrella if you’re feeling fancy — and serve with ice and a wink.

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​But making this Pink Lemonade? That takes a bit more doing. Every bead is hand-strung, carefully spaced, and then restrung when it misbehaves (which it often does — crystal beads are divas, trust me). The effect, though, is absolutely worth it. Wear it long and flirty for a laid-back look, or double it up and it turns into a collarbone-hugging showstopper.

The Caprilicious Woman Knows...

Life’s too short to be matchy-matchy. She wears red lipstick with a denim shirt. She wears pink necklaces with green dresses. And she knows that when you’re feeling a bit meh, a necklace called Pink Lemonade is exactly what you need to perk you up.
So go on — pour yourself a glass, pop on your pearls, and take this pretty little number out for a spin. Just don’t blame me if people start asking where you got your sparkle from.
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That's me for this week, folks. Have a great weekend and I'll catch you soon, 
Until then
​xx
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Fiesta del Sol – Sunshine, Style, and a Dash of Sass, by Caprilicious

26/7/2025

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Hello good people, how are you today? It's been a hard week at the day job and it was a pleasure to come home of an evening and play with beads. I designed this necklace over the week and put it together on Friday for your delectation, and I hope you like it. 
This necklace is pure joy — it’s like a carnival conga line in gemstone form! With its vivid mix of carved cinnabar, bold turquoise, juicy orange resin nuggets, lapis lazuli, and those fabulous hand-painted tribal-style wooden beads, it’s got character for days. It practically sings colour, culture, and confidence and has a bold eclectic energy.

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​Let’s face it — British summers are more "blink and you'll miss it" than blazing Mediterranean glory. But just because the skies are grey doesn’t mean you have to be. Enter Fiesta del Sol, your personal patch of wearable sunshine.
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​This necklace is a riot of colour and cheer — think Spanish fiesta meets a stroll through a Moroccan souk, with a detour past a turquoise sea. It’s got all the ingredients for a good time: juicy orange resin beads that look like they were plucked from a fruit bowl in Ibiza, sky-blue turquoise and regal lapis lazuli that would make Cleopatra do a double take, and cheeky carved cinnabar beads that wink at you like they know something you don’t.
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​And the gold-tone spacers? Oh, they're having their moment now — all bright and shiny — but give them time and they’ll mellow into a rich antique gold that whispers rather than shouts. Kind of like me after a couple of sangrias on holiday.
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​Fiesta del Sol was made for warm weather adventures. Light and easy to wear, it slips effortlessly over your kaftan or summer dress and says, “Yes, I do look this fabulous on the deck of a cruise ship at 11am, thank you very much.” It’s the perfect statement piece for when your biggest decision is whether it’s too early for a gelato. (Answer: it’s never too early.) Let’s talk practicality for a minute — because while this necklace looks like it belongs in a swanky boutique in Santorini, it’s incredibly affordable. Think champagne taste, prosecco budget. And just to keep things extra friendly, there’s even a 1.5-inch extender on the clasp — because not all necklines (or necks) are created equal, and thank goodness for that.

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Pair it with linen, denim, or floaty florals. It lifts neutrals, plays nicely with prints, and somehow always finds the light — much like your best holiday self. Toss your hair, grab your sunnies, and let this necklace do the talking while you sip something cold and plan your next escape.
​So if your wardrobe’s feeling a bit “meh,” it might be time to inject a little fiesta magic. Because sunshine doesn’t have to come from the sky — sometimes, it comes in necklace form.
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That's me for this week, folks. I have a garden party to attend this weekend and a dinner party with work colleagues - quite the socialite!
I took a picture of my latest garden ornament - an acrylic colourful chandelier which isn't really meant to be used outdoors so I haven't connected it to the mains, although I put bulbs in - I love chandeliers in unexpected places - this is my third one in the garden.
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​Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
xx

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Leaf Me Breathless, by Caprilicious

19/7/2025

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Hello folks, how are you today? I have had a couple of days away from work as I was entertaining family from India. My guests have now left and I thought I'd stop by and say hello. It's always nice to meet up with kindred spirits, albeit virtually.
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Let’s get this out of the way: this necklace is not for the faint-hearted, the faint-styled, or those who live in beige. No way, Jose'. This is for those who march into autumn with jazz hands, pumpkin lattes in both fists, and a leaf blower strapped to their back for dramatic effect.

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​Meet Leaf Me Breathless – a necklace so deliciously seasonal it practically crunches underfoot. Originally called Autumn Bliss (which sounds a bit like a limited-edition body lotion, doesn’t it?), this revamped version comes alive with burnt amber yellow jasper shards and five glorious carved blue agate leaves that seem to have fluttered down from the neck of a forest goddess who does yoga and definitely has better hair than the rest of us.
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The burnt ochre of the jasper gives off serious “sunlight through trees” energy, while the carved agate leaves, in a moody teal, add just enough drama to keep things interesting. And if you think blue leaves aren’t a thing, I say—neither are talking jewellery blog posts, and yet here we are.

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Yellow jasper has been knocking around since ancient times, and was often worn as a protective talisman. Warriors used to carry it into battle, presumably to protect against bad vibes and pointy sticks. It’s said to bring clarity, confidence, and a bit of inner sunshine. Perfect, really, for brightening up gloomy days—or gloomy moods.
And those jagged, irregular nuggets? That’s Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Perfection is boring, darling. Embrace the chaos.” And I couldn’t agree more.
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Wear it over a mustard sweater for full-on autumnal fabulousness, or contrast it with teal or cobalt for an eye-popping, artsy vibe.

It pairs surprisingly well with denim, making it your best friend for brunches, book clubs, and mild public spectacles.
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Keep the neckline simple—this necklace is the outfit. Add earrings only if you must, but they’d better know their place.
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That's me for this week, folks. My guests have all gone, the house has been tidied away and it's raining outside so I have nothing to do in the garden. Time to relax, then before I have to go back to work on Monday morning.
Have a wonderful, if wet weekend and I'll catch you soon, 
Until then
​xx

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Rhapsody in Blue – A Necklace That Sings, by Caprilicious

11/7/2025

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Hello folks, How are you today? I hope you've been enjoying the sunshine. Basking in the sunshine, cracking open the beers and dusting off the barbeque - most folk have been doing that for the last few weeks. It rained conveniently for a day, giving all the gardens a good dousing just when the grass was turning crisp around the edges. 
​I’ve always loved George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue—that sultry, soaring clarinet glissando that starts the piece gets me every time. It feels like the musical equivalent of a perfectly flicked eyeliner or a dramatic hair toss. So when I finished stringing this necklace and stood back to admire it, there was only ever going to be one name for it. The rich, jewel-toned blues and the sparkle of the bezel-set crystals positively sing—there's definitely music in this one.
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​Meet Rhapsody in Blue, a symphony of faceted blue glass beads in four deliciously drapey strands, punctuated with flashes of sparkle from bezel-set cubic zirconia. It’s elegant, it’s flirty, it catches the light when you move—and frankly, if this necklace could talk, it would probably purr. If music could be captured in jewellery, Rhapsody in Blue would be the result. As I worked on this piece, that iconic Gershwin clarinet riff kept playing in my head – sultry, swoony, dramatic. And just like the music, this necklace builds in layers of texture and shimmer until it hits a crescendo of sparkle and glamour that you can almost hear.
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​Let’s talk beads. These aren't just your garden-variety shiny things. Oh no. Each of the rich cobalt blue glass beads is cut with multiple facets – and I mean loads of them – which catch and reflect the light like tiny disco balls. You’ll twinkle in the sunlight like you've been personally endorsed by the sun itself. Whether you’re standing on a breezy deck at golden hour or striding down the street with your sunglasses on and your confidence dialled to eleven, this necklace brings the drama in the best possible way.
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​Despite its impressive look, it's surprisingly easy to wear. It's light on the neck but big on presence. Dress it up with a simple navy shift and heels and you’ve got boardroom chic with a touch of drama. Or let it be the star of the show by wearing it with a plain white shirt, sleeves rolled up, collar popped, oversized sunnies perched on your nose—the classic "I'm running errands but look at me!" outfit. You know the one. 
​Rhapsody in Blue is also perfect for those summer evenings when you want to bring a bit of sparkle to the party (or to dinner, or even just the local M&S – why not?). Go full-on glamour with a flowing kaftan, statement earrings, and your best cat-eye eyeliner.
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​But it wasn’t all sparkle and jazz behind the scenes, let me tell you. There’s always that one tricky diva in every ensemble, and in this case it was the cubic zirconia bezels. Beautiful? Yes. Sparkly? Absolutely. Easy to string? Not even slightly. These little devils have pointed backs that go well below halfway down their bezels, which meant I had to string them sideways. Yes, sideways. I've had them in my stash for ages because I couldn't figure out how to work with them. Cue a lot of head-scratching, some gentle cursing, and the odd muttered threat. But in the end, it was all worth it. They now sit nestled between the blue beads like little windows of light, catching the sun and winking mischievously at anyone who dares to look your way.
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​The five strands drape like silk and move with you – it’s a necklace with presence but not heaviness. And, because even the most fabulous necklace deserves a pretty ending, I finished it off with a decorative floral box clasp that clicks shut with a satisfying snick—secure, stylish, and secretly beautiful at the back of your neck.
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And because we’re all about the details here at Caprilicious, I finished it off with a beautifully ornate box clasp in a floral design—because even the back of your neck deserves a little glam. ​The five strands drape like silk and move with you – it’s a necklace with presence but not heaviness. The decorative floral box clasp that clicks shut with a satisfying snick—secure, stylish, and secretly beautiful at the back of your neck.
So whether you're off to a summer soirée or just swanning about pretending you’re in a perfume ad (no judgement—I do it too), Rhapsody in Blue is ready to hit all the right notes. ​At Caprilicious, we don’t believe in fading into the background – and this necklace certainly doesn’t. It’s unapologetically bold, joyfully bright, and 100% fabulous.
You’ll never hum Gershwin the same way again.
That's me for this week folks. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
xx
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Pansy – A Pop of Petals and Playfulness by Caprilicious

5/7/2025

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Hello folks, thanks for stopping by. I hope you've been enjoying the British summer if you live here, I certainly have, so far. The garden is blooming and apart from a miniature hydrangea that our gardener butchered last winter when we asked him to prune it, we haven't lost too many plants. As always, in the summer, when the garden is blooming I like to showcase nature in my jewellery.

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Let me introduce you to Pansy — a necklace so cheerful, it practically hums show tunes as you walk by. This summery piece is a little slice of joy, and frankly, I’m rather pleased with myself for having created it. The flower pendant is made from copper clay, which I moulded and fired in the kiln (yes, I play with fire — it’s very therapeutic). Right in the middle of the bloom, I embedded a tiny spark of sparkle in the form of a cubic zirconia, just to make it twinkle flirtatiously when the sun hits it.

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​The beads are red colour-enhanced chalcedony — juicy, luscious, and completely irresistible, like ripe cherries or forbidden fruit at a summer picnic. They’ve got a richness that brings the whole piece to life, and when combined with that warm-toned copper flower, it’s like a love letter to long, lazy afternoons and sun-drenched garden parties.
Pansy is light and easy to wear — it sits sweetly at the collarbone, and won't weigh you down or strangle you slowly as the evening progresses (we’ve all been there). It’s one of those pieces that you can throw on with very little effort and still look like you’ve made an intentional, arty choice. It says, “Oh this? I just threw it on,” while secretly knowing it’s the star of the show.

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Now, how to wear it? Picture this: a simple linen dress, hair up in a messy bun or a loose braid, maybe a straw hat for good measure. You’re wandering through a country fair, ice cream in one hand, smug expression firmly in place because you know you look effortlessly fabulous. Or perhaps you're just running errands, but who says the supermarket doesn't deserve a bit of glamour?

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​If you're a maximalist, layer it up with a few bangles and maybe some flower-themed earrings for a full-blown bloom-fest. If you prefer things a little more pared back, let Pansy do the talking. Either way, this necklace is versatile, playful, and the perfect little pick-me-up for your summer wardrobe.
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Ah yes — let’s talk about that clasp! It might be tucked away at the back of the necklace, but it’s no less deserving of the spotlight. In fact, it’s a little piece of art in its own right. I also love that apart from the beads, the entire piece has been handmade, inhouse, by me.
The clasp is handmade from copper wire, shaped and forged by yours truly into a lovely decorative flourish. I’ve even set it with a tiny blue gemstone, because why should the front have all the fun? It’s secure, reliable, and just fancy enough to make you feel smug when someone compliments your necklace and you say, “Oh, and look at the clasp!” (cue dramatic hair sweep to show it off).
Function meets flair — the best kind of jewellery detail, if you ask me. The rich copper tone complements the flower pendant beautifully and adds a subtle boho elegance to the back of the neck. So even if your hair is up in a messy bun or an artful twist, there’s something delightful to admire from every angle.
In short — it’s not just a fastener. It’s the cherry on top.
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It’s a piece that brings a smile — to the wearer, and to anyone lucky enough to catch a glimpse. And honestly, isn’t that what jewellery is all about? Oh! By the way, has anyone noticed that the beads seem to be in Morse Code? I wonder what the message is!

That's me for this week, folks. Have a wonderful week and I'll catch you soon. 
Until then
​xx

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Meadow Dance – Jewellery for Daydreamers and Boho Queens by Caprilicious

22/6/2025

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Hello folks, and how are you today? It's been a lovely couple of weeks in unaccustomed sunshine - the UK hasn't seen anything like it in years and years. If this is global warming, let's enjoy it as World War three might have just been started last night in Iran. 
I took this picture of our beautiful amaryllis lily. It originally came to me as a Christmas gift five years ago – just a bulb, wrapped in plastic and the beautiful little red pot. Of course, I was far too lazy to pot it up at the time, so it ended up forgotten, languishing in the garage. Months later, in June, my husband found it and kindly planted it for me. Ever since then, the amaryllis has made its own rules – it flowers faithfully every June, completely ignoring the traditional Christmas schedule. I quite like that rebellious streak!

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I picked out a beautiful dragonfly pendant from my stash for this weeks necklace – there’s something about dragonflies that instantly evokes summer for me. Their delicate symmetry is perfect for jewellery, and given the choice between butterflies and dragonflies, the dragonfly wins every time. They are so ethereal and captivating, with their gauzy wings and slender, almost weightless bodies. There’s a quiet magic about them that never fails to draw me in.

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​Picture this: it’s a golden afternoon, the kind that seems to stretch lazily forever. The sun is warm but not bossy, the sky is a soft powder blue with just the occasional fluffy cloud, and you’re gliding barefoot through a wildflower meadow. There’s a gentle breeze teasing the hem of your floaty white dress, the scent of honeysuckle in the air, and – because no fantasy is complete without a little extra flourish – you’re leading a beautiful, well-behaved horse by its reins. (Unlike your last boyfriend, this one actually listens.) Somewhere nearby, an invisible guitarist strums a gentle melody just for you. You’re not rushing anywhere. Why would you? You’ve got nowhere to be but right here, soaking in the sunshine and living your best slow-motion moment.

And around your neck? Meadow Dance, of course!

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This necklace is practically made for sun-dappled strolls and bohemian daydreams. Two strands of the freshest green peridot beads – like tiny drops of new spring leaves – shimmer and glisten as they wrap around your neck. They’re punctuated with deliciously irregular Biwa freshwater pearls, plump and gloriously tactile, their soft lustre bouncing the sunlight back at anyone lucky enough to catch a glimpse. You’ll find yourself absentmindedly touching them, enjoying the cool smoothness beneath your fingertips as you sip something cold and bubbly.
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​And then there’s the dragonfly. Oh, the dragonfly! A golden, glittering centrepiece, studded with tiny coloured crystals and poised delicately at your throat, as though it’s just paused there to say hello before flitting away on the breeze. Dragonflies are often said to symbolise transformation, self-realisation, and the joy of living in the moment. In this necklace, though, it’s just as much about playful elegance – a little wink from Mother Nature that says, “Go on, have some fun.”
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But let’s not forget the tiny details that make Meadow Dance sing. The clasp isn’t just a necessary nuisance. It’s a sweet little peridot-inlaid box clasp, a perfectly-formed gem in its own right, and frankly, it’s so pretty you might wish you could wear it slightly off-centre to show it off. 
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​Meadow Dance is light, easy to wear, and has a carefree, boho vibe that’s made for women who aren’t afraid to channel their inner meadow goddess. It’s perfect for summer festivals, garden parties, and picnics in the park – or, frankly, for those days when you want to bring a bit of that meadow magic into your everyday life (yes, even if you’re just popping to the shops).
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​Pair it with a gauzy maxi dress, strappy sandals, and maybe some flowers tucked into your hair for the full effect. Or wear it with jeans and a crisp white shirt to add a splash of whimsy to a regular Tuesday. There are no rules here. Just joyful, romantic, unapologetic beauty.
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So, whether you’re dancing in the daisies, dreaming of sun-soaked afternoons, or simply looking to add a little lightness to your day, Meadow Dance is ready to lead the way – no horse required.

That's me for this week, folks. I'm off to enjoy the sunshine. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon, 

Until then,
​xx
​

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    Author

     Hello! I'm Neena Shilvock, and I’m hopelessly, delightfully, completely addicted to jewellery.
    What started over twelve years ago as a creative outlet has turned into a full-blown love affair with beads, baubles, and bold statements. I design and handcraft quirky, interesting, and unapologetically eye-catching necklaces—and the obsession hasn’t cooled one bit. If anything, it’s intensified. I even dream about jewellery. Yes, really.
    This blog is where I share my latest creations, the stories behind them, styling tips, and a healthy dose of wry humour. If you’re a kindred spirit—someone who loves colour, craftsmanship, and a good giggle—then I’d love to hear from you.
    ​Drop me a line, and who knows? It might just be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
    ​Write to me at jewellerybycaprilicious(at)gmail.com

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     I would love to hear from you - please leave a comment on the blog or send an email  to jewellerybycaprilicious(at)gmail.com
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    In Berlin with my sweet better half, Mike

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